FAQ

A: Our doctors like to have a consultation with anyone under 30 years of age prior to the procedure being booked. This can be done over the phone. Ultimately it is at the doctors’ discretion as to whether they are happy to proceed on those under 30. Generally this is not an issue if patients have one or two children and are in a stable relationship.

Q: When are the follow-up sperm checks done?

A: These are done at 4 months. If residual sperm remains detectable and further test is done two months after this. In general it takes at least 25 ejaculations and a time frame of around 4 months for patients to clear the residual sperm.

Q: Does this affect my sexual performance and volume of ejaculation afterwards?

A: Sexual performance is not affected at all and you can expect to see no changes in the volume of ejaculate post procedure.

Q: Is this procedure reversible?

A: The procedure should be seen as irreversible. In a percentage of cases the procedure is able to be successfully reversed and a pregnancy achieved. Reversal is expensive and success is not guaranteed. Patients who are considering reversal should not proceed with a vasectomy.

Q: How long after the procedure until I can have sex?

A: It is recommended patients wait for 7 days and until discomfort following the procedure has settled.

Q: What do I do prior to the procedure?

A: Patients need to carefully shave the scrotum and pubic area 2 days prior to their procedure. Patients should refrain from any aspirin, ibuprofen or fish oil supplements for 7 days prior to the procedure. They should avoid alcohol on the night prior to the procedure. Patients should shower on the morning of the procedure and have a light breakfast.

Q: What can I expect afterwards?

A: Patients can expect some bruising and soreness for several days following the procedure. Patients will be fit to conduct sedentary duties the day following the procedure but should avoid any heaving lifting for the next few days. Patients will be required to wear 2 pairs of supportive underwear for at least 2 days following the procedure and for at least 7 days if they are conducting any lifting or more strenuous activities. Patients will need to continue their contraception until a semen test conducted at 4 months following the procedure confirms the absence of sperm.